Bangladesh's rural economy remains the backbone of national development, and within this, the char (riverine island) regions hold a unique yet challenging position. These isolated and constantly shifting lands, formed by river sedimentation, are home to millions who struggle against nature’s uncertainties and socio-economic marginalization. Addressing rural development in the chars is not just a matter of economic growth but a necessity for ensuring equity, resilience, and sustainability.
Life in the chars is defined by displacement, poverty, and limited access to essential services. Recurrent floods and river erosion force families to relocate frequently, disrupting livelihoods, education, and health services. Due to their geographic remoteness, char dwellers face severe challenges in accessing markets, roads, schools, and healthcare facilities. Agriculture, their primary occupation, suffers from frequent crop losses, lack of modern farming techniques, and poor irrigation facilities. Additionally, climate change has further exacerbated vulnerabilities in the chars, intensifying floods and making agricultural activities unpredictable. Women and children, in particular, bear the brunt of these adversities, with limited opportunities for education, healthcare, and economic empowerment.
Building all-weather roads, improving waterways, and ensuring sustainable embankments can significantly enhance the mobility of char dwellers and their access to markets and services. Introducing climate-resilient crop varieties, adaptive farming techniques, and access to irrigation facilities will help sustain agricultural productivity despite climatic adversities. Beyond agriculture, investment in livestock rearing, fisheries, handicrafts, and eco-tourism can create alternative income sources for char communities. Establishing mobile schools, digital learning platforms, and vocational training centers can equip the younger generation with skills beyond traditional farming. Expanding microfinance schemes, social safety nets, and disaster insurance will help mitigate economic shocks and enhance resilience. Encouraging local participation in decision-making and promoting self-help groups can ensure that development initiatives align with the real needs of char residents.
One successful initiative in improving char livelihoods is the Char Livelihoods Programme (CLP), which has demonstrated significant impact in alleviating poverty in these vulnerable areas. CLP has focused on asset transfers, income diversification, healthcare access, and women's empowerment. By providing livestock, training in sustainable agriculture, and access to clean water and sanitation, CLP has helped thousands of char dwellers build resilient livelihoods. The program's holistic approach highlights how targeted interventions can create lasting change in these marginal communities.
Despite numerous challenges, chars hold immense potential for contributing to national growth if given proper attention. Policymakers must integrate char development into mainstream rural policies, ensuring targeted investments and adaptive strategies. Public-private partnerships, NGO interventions, and international collaboration can play a crucial role in fostering sustainable livelihoods in these fragile ecosystems. Inclusive rural development must not overlook the chars. It is time to turn our focus to these forgotten lands, empowering their people with opportunities and security. Only then can Bangladesh achieve its vision of sustainable and equitable development. The writer is a 

 Ex-President of River Defenders Club (BRF-RDC) Postgraduate Student, Bangladesh Agricultural University (BAU), Mymensingh-2202